Ritu

Ritu is a feminine given name of Sanskrit origin, derived from the word ṛtu, meaning "season, period". In Hindu cosmology, the ṛtus refer to the six traditional seasons of the Indian calendar: Vasanta (spring), Grishma (summer), Varsha (monsoon), Sharad (autumn), Hemanta (pre-winter), and Shishira (winter). The name thus evokes nature and the cyclical flow of time. It is most commonly used among Bengali, Hindi, Marathi, and Punjabi communities in India and the diaspora.

The name entered Western usage primarily through the South Asian diaspora in the late 20th century. In English-language contexts, it is also a Mandarin Chinese place name referring to Rutog County in Tibet, but this homograph has a distinct etymology and pronunciation.

Notable bearers include Ritu Chanana (Indian fashion designer) and Ritu Arya (British actress, known for Umbrella Academy). The name is rare outside of South Asia but occasionally appears in multicultural communities.

• Meaning: "season, period"
• Origin: Sanskrit
• Type: Given name (primarily female)
• Usage regions: Bengali, Hindi, Marathi, Punjabi